Ride Safe

Every mode of transportation has its risks. Riding a bike is no different. Know how to ride safe before you #TakeHealthyRide.

Before Your Ride

Inspect Your Bike

Adjust Seat Height – The bicycle seat is easily adjustable. Just release the clamp on the side of the seat post, raise or lower the seat to your preferred height and re-tighten the clamp. Typically a seat is at the right height when you can almost fully straighten your legs when pedaling.

Check Tires – Push each tire hard against a curb or the ground. If you can flatten it, it needs air. Turn each wheel slowly and look for cuts, bulges or bubbles in the tire.

Test Brakes – Give each wheel a spin to check that it does not catch against the brake pads or anything else.

Inspect the chain, pedals, lights and frame for any additional damage. Report damages to Pittsburgh Bike Share either by the nextbike app or call customer service at (412) 535-5189.

Meet Your Bike

Bring a helmet

Wear it level on your head, about two finger-widths above your eyebrows.

Your helmet should fit snugly on your head and not rock side-to-side. Use the foam pads that came with the helmet or the internal adjuster to fine-tune.

Always buckle the chin strap and make sure the straps are snug. Only about two fingers should fit beneath the chin strap.

Replace your helmet after any crash or whenever you see signs of damage.

Plan Your Ride

Healthy Ride Stations – What’s the closest station to you? What’s the closest station to your destination? Know where you’re headed for a safer ride.

Bike Pgh Map – It’s Pittsburgh’s most comprehensive bike routes map, and this year it will include all Healthy Ride Station Locations. Print maps are available at most cycling shops in Pittsburgh – get yours.

Google Maps – Plan your ride with Google Maps and see what hills you may have to tackle. Note: Google doesn’t always consider safest routes.

During Your Ride

Be Aware / Be Predictable

Ride in a straight line – don’t weave around parked cars or traffic

Use hand signals to let drivers and other cyclists know where you’re going.

Ride about four feet away from parked cars avoiding “the door zone.”

Use the bell to alert drivers, pedestrians and other cyclists of your presence.

Never use headphones or your cellphone while riding

Make eye contact with drivers and pedestrians before passing

Avoid riding or waiting in car’s blind-spots

Turning

When turning left, check if the coast is clear, then signal as you get into position in the turning lane. Signal again then turn left.

Sitting In Traffic

When stopped in traffic, position yourself behind the vehicle in front of you while maintaining your spot in traffic. Stay out of blind spots.